Does anybody really believe in the devil anymore?

Q:

Does anybody really believe in the devil anymore? You wrote something in your column recently that made me think you did, but I thought that kind of thinking went out with the Middle Ages.

A:

It’s been said that one of Satan’s most successful strategies is to convince people that he doesn’t even exist. Another surely must be to make people believe that he is simply a harmless, comic character (with, for example, a pitchfork and a red suit).

But neither of those is accurate — for Satan is real, and he is very powerful. In fact, some would say he’s the strongest force in the universe, except for God. His goal is to block God’s purposes in every way he possibly can — because he wants to take God’s place as the all-powerful ruler of the universe. The Bible describes his goal this way: “You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven…. I will make myself like the Most High'” (Isaiah 14:13-14).

Yes, Satan is real — and we see evidence of his evil workings every day. How else can you explain the irrational acts of violence and terrorism that ravage our world? How else can you explain the way we fall for his temptations — although we know they’ll only bring us disaster?

But the most important fact about Satan is this: He is a defeated foe. Yes, the battle continues — but the final outcome isn’t in doubt, because by His death and resurrection Jesus Christ defeated death and hell and Satan. Some day, the final battle will be fought and Satan will be defeated forever. On whose side are you? Make sure you are on the winning side, by giving your life to Jesus Christ today.